Aspectos clínico-epidemiológicos en pacientes con abscesos odontogénicos cervicofaciales y factores asociados para estancia hospitalaria corta / Clinical-epidemiological aspects in patients with cervicofacial odontogenic abscesses and associated factors for short hospital stay

Introducción: en todo paciente hospitalizado con absceso odontogénico cervicofacial se busca resolución pronta del absceso, pero es necesario conocer cuáles son los factores que favorecen la resolución en hospitalizaciones cortas (1-3 días). Objetivo: determinar factores clínico-epidemiológicos de pacientes con abscesos odontogénicos para identificar factores que correlacionan con hospitalización corta. Material y métodos: estudio transversal, retrospectivo, observacional y analítico de 100 pacientes con abscesos odontogénicos en un Hospital General de Zona del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social de los años 2012-2013. Variables de estudio: días de hospitalización, sexo, edad, comorbilidades, conteo leucocitario, trismus, diente causal, región afectada y tratamientos realizados. Tamaño de muestra obtenido con fórmula para estudios observaciones con manejo de prevalencias para poblaciones infinitas, se empleó χ2 para identificar factores que correlacionan con hospitalización corta. Resultados: mujeres 56%, rango de edad 12-89 años y de hospitalización de 1-23 días; con comorbilidades 56%, leucocitosis 39% y trismus 21%. La caries causó 64% de abscesos, molares inferiores 70% y región submandibular afectada 73%. Variables estadísticamente significativas; conteo leucocitario, diente causal y región afectada. Conclusión: factores correlacionados con hospitalización corta: conteo leucocitario menor a 10,500 leucocitos, que el molar inferior no sea el diente causal y que la región submandibular no esté afectada (AU)

Introduction: prompt resolution of the abscess is sought in all patients hospitalized with cervicofacial odontogenic abscess, but which factors favor this resolution in short hospitalizations (1-3 days). Objective: determine clinical-epidemiological factors of patients with odontogenic abscesses to identify factors that correlate with short hospitalization. Material and methods: crosssectional, retrospective, observational and analytical study of 100 patients with odontogenic abscesses in a General Hospital of the Zone of the Mexican Social Security Institute from 2012-2013. Study variables; days of hospitalization, sex, age, comorbidities, leukocyte count, trismus, causative tooth, affected region and treatments performed. Sample size obtained with the formula for observational studies with prevalence management for infinite populations, χ2 was used to identify factors that correlate with short hospitalization. Results: women 56%, age range 12-89 years and hospitalization of 1-23 days, with comorbidities 56%, leukocytosis 39% and trismus 21%. Caries caused 64% of abscesses, lower molars 70% and affected submandibular region 73%. Statistically significant variables; leukocyte count, causative tooth and affected region. Conclusion: factors correlated with short hospitalization; leukocyte count less than 10,500 leukocytes, that the lower molar is not the causal tooth and that the submandibular region is not affected.

Liver abscess due to Granulicatella adiacens in an immunocompetent patient: Case report. / Absceso hepático por Granulicatella adiacens

Pyogenic liver abscesses due to Granulicatella adiacens are infections associated with high mortality, mainly in immunocompromised patients. The main microorganisms associated with liver abscesses are Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli, though it may also be polymicrobial. However, case reports describing liver infection by Granulicatella adiacens are scarce. We present the case of an immunocompetent adult patient who presented 15 days of evolution consisting of quantified fever peaks associated with asthenia, adynamia, chills, jaundice and coluria. The initial clinical examination revealed a generalized icteric tint without abdominal pain, and blood pressure with a tendency to hypotension. Biliopancreatic confluent neoplasia, secondary cholangitis and sepsis of biliary origin were suspected, initiating fluid resuscitation and antibiotic therapy; blood cultures and complementary diagnostic studies were taken. Hepatobiliary ultrasound with evidence of an abscess of 73 x 62 mm in segment IV; the bile duct and pancreas were within normal limits. To better characterize the lesion evidenced in the liver, a contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the abdomen was performed. The patient completed antibiotic management with ciprofloxacin, vancomycin, and metronidazole in good condition and was successfully discharged. This is the first pyogenic liver abscess reported caused by Granulicatella adiacens in an immunocompetent patient, in whom early microbiological diagnosis in conjunction with targeted antibiotic treatment and percutaneous drainage of the lesion was decisive in the clinical outcome.

Los abscesos hepáticos piógenos por Granulicatella adiacens son infecciones asociadas a una alta mortalidad, principalmente en pacientes inmunocomprometidos. Los principales microorganismos asociados a los abscesos hepáticos son Klebsiella pneumoniae y Escherichia coli, aunque pueden ser polimicrobianos. Sin embargo, los informes de casos que describen la infección hepática por G. adiacens son muy escasos. Se presenta el caso de un paciente adulto inmunocompetente que presentó 15 días de evolución de picos febriles cuantificados asociados a astenia, adinamia, escalofríos, ictericia y coluria. El examen clínico inicial reveló un tinte ictérico generalizado sin dolor abdominal, y presión arterial con tendencia a la hipotensión. Se sospechó neoplasia biliopancreática confluente, colangitis secundaria y sepsis de origen biliar, y se inició reanimación con líquidos y antibioterapia. Se tomaron hemocultivos y estudios diagnósticos complementarios. En el ultrasonido hepatobiliar, se observó un absceso de 73 x 62 mm en el segmento IV; la vía biliar y el páncreas se encontraron dentro de los límites normales. Se realizaron múltiples pruebas moleculares de detección de microorganismos (FilmArray), y se identificó a G. adiacens como el principal agente patógeno. El paciente completó el manejo antibiótico con ciprofloxacina, vancomicina y metronidazol en buenas condiciones y fue dado de alta con éxito. Este es el primer absceso hepático piógeno reportado causado por G. adiacens en un paciente inmunocompetente, en quien el diagnóstico microbiológico temprano en conjunto con el tratamiento antibiótico dirigido y el drenaje percutáneo de la lesión fueron determinantes en el resultado clínico.

Brain abscesses caused by anaerobic microorganisms: a systematic review

The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review of the characteristics, causative microorganisms and outcome of brain abscesses caused by anaerobic bacteria over the past 25 years. We reviewed studies on brain abscesses which included infection due to anaerobic microorganisms published between 1998 and 2022. We excluded reports with polymicrobial infections (more than 2 anaerobic bacteria isolated) and those that do not provide enough information to make comparisons, the reports with only one case of brain abscess due to anaerobes, as well as those focused on an only anaerobic bacterium. Also, we have excluded the cases in pediatric population. We searched the scientific literature through the Cochrane Library, EMBASE and PubMed/MEDLINE databases for studies of this condition. We finally included 28 studies with 6,167 patients, of which 715 (11.5%) were cases caused by anaerobic bacteria. There was a male predominance (70%) and mean age of 40.3 years. Most infections were monomicrobial (59.4%). The most common anaerobic microorganisms isolated were Bacteroides spp (43.4%) and Gram-positive anaerobic cocci (35.1%). Cases of brain abscesses caused by anaerobic bacteria were most frequent in Asia and Europe. The source of infection most frequent was otogenic in 84.6% followed by a neurosurgery procedure infection in 23% of patients. The main symptom observed was headache in 95.6% of patients followed by fever (69.5%). Surgical treatment was performed in 48 % of patients and the percentage of patients in whom antibiotic treatment was applied range 88.8% to 100%. The main limitation of this review is the non-inclusion of studies published before of 1998 in which MALDI-TOF MS system had not been introduced in the majority of laboratories for routine identification. (AU)

El objetivo de este estudio fue realizar una revisión sistemática de las características, los microorganismos causantes y evolución de los abscesos cerebrales causados por bacterias anaerobias en los últimos 25 años. Revisamos los estudios sobre abscesos cerebrales que incluyeron infección por microorganismos anaerobios publicados entre 1998 y 2022. Se excluyeron estudios con infecciones polimicrobianas (más de 2 bacterias anaerobias aisladas) y aquellos que no proporcionaban suficiente información para realizar comparaciones, los estudios con solo un caso de absceso por anaerobios así como aquellos focalizados solo en una bacteria anaerobia. También se excluyeron los casos en población pediátrica. Se realizó búsqueda de la literatura científica a través de la librería Cochrane y base de datos EMBASE y PubMed/MEDLINE para estudios con esas características. Se incluyeron finalmente 28 estudios con 6167 pacientes, de los cuales 715 (11,5%) fueron casos causados por bacterias anaerobias. Hubo predominio masculino (70%) y edad media de 40,3 años. La mayoría de las infecciones fueron monomicrobianas (59,4%). Los microorganismos anaerobios más comunes aislados fueron Bacteroides spp (43,4%) y cocos anaerobios grampositivos (35,1%). Los casos de abscesos cerebrales causados por bacterias anaerobias fueron más frecuentes en Asia y Europa. La fuente de infección más frecuente fue la otogénica en un 84,6% seguida de una infección por procedimiento de neurocirugía en un 23% de los pacientes. El principal síntoma observado fue la cefalea en el 95,6% de los pacientes seguido de fiebre (69,5%). Se realizó tratamiento quirúrgico en el 48 % de los pacientes y el porcentaje de pacientes en los que se aplicó tratamiento antibiótico oscila entre el 88,8 % y el 100 %. La principal limitación de esta revisión fue la no inclusión de estudios anteriores a 1998 en los que todavía no se había introducido MALDI-TOF MS en la mayoría de los laboratorios para el diagnóstico rutinario. (AU)

Liver abscess due to Granulicatella adiacens in an immunocompetent patient: Case report / Absceso hepático por Granulicatella adiacens

Pyogenic liver abscesses due to Granulicatella adiacens are infections associated with high mortality, mainly in immunocompromised patients. The main microorganisms associated with liver abscesses are Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli, though it may also be polymicrobial. However, case reports describing liver infection by Granulicatella adiacens are scarce. We present the case of an immunocompetent adult patient who presented 15 days of evolution consisting of quantified fever peaks associated with asthenia, adynamia, chills, jaundice and coluria. The initial clinical examination revealed a generalized icteric tint without abdominal pain, and blood pressure with a tendency to hypotension. Biliopancreatic confluent neoplasia, secondary cholangitis and sepsis of biliary origin were suspected, initiating fluid resuscitation and antibiotic therapy; blood cultures and complementary diagnostic studies were taken. Hepatobiliary ultrasound with evidence of an abscess of 73 x 62 mm in segment IV; the bile duct and pancreas were within normal limits. To better characterize the lesion evidenced in the liver, a contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the abdomen was performed. The patient completed antibiotic management with ciprofloxacin, vancomycin, and metronidazole in good condition and was successfully discharged. This is the first pyogenic liver abscess reported caused by Granulicatella adiacens in an immunocompetent patient, in whom early microbiological diagnosis in conjunction with targeted antibiotic treatment and percutaneous drainage of the lesion was decisive in the clinical outcome.

Los abscesos hepáticos piógenos por Granulicatella adiacens son infecciones asociadas a una alta mortalidad, principalmente en pacientes inmunocomprometidos. Los principales microorganismos asociados a los abscesos hepáticos son Klebsiella pneumoniae y Escherichia coli, aunque pueden ser polimicrobianos. Sin embargo, los informes de casos que describen la infección hepática por G. adiacens son muy escasos. Se presenta el caso de un paciente adulto inmunocompetente que presentó 15 días de evolución de picos febriles cuantificados asociados a astenia, adinamia, escalofríos, ictericia y coluria. El examen clínico inicial reveló un tinte ictérico generalizado sin dolor abdominal, y presión arterial con tendencia a la hipotensión. Se sospechó neoplasia biliopancreática confluente, colangitis secundaria y sepsis de origen biliar, y se inició reanimación con líquidos y antibioterapia. Se tomaron hemocultivos y estudios diagnósticos complementarios. En el ultrasonido hepatobiliar, se observó un absceso de 73 x 62 mm en el segmento IV; la vía biliar y el páncreas se encontraron dentro de los límites normales. Se realizaron múltiples pruebas moleculares de detección de microorganismos (FilmArray), y se identificó a G. adiacens como el principal agente patógeno. El paciente completó el manejo antibiótico con ciprofloxacina, vancomicina y metronidazol en buenas condiciones y fue dado de alta con éxito. Este es el primer absceso hepático piógeno reportado causado por G. adiacens en un paciente inmunocompetente, en quien el diagnóstico microbiológico temprano en conjunto con el tratamiento antibiótico dirigido y el drenaje percutáneo de la lesión fueron determinantes en el resultado clínico.

Listeriosis diseminada: a propósito de un caso

La listeriosis es una enfermedad infecto contagiosa, transmitida por los alimentos, prevenible, y potencialmente grave. Las formas clínicas de presentación pueden ser muy variadas, desde una gastroenterocolitis hasta sepsis grave y compromiso multisistémico. Se discute el caso de una mujer joven que se presenta con manifestaciones neuropsiquiátricas y sistémicas subagudas, en contexto febril en la que a través de hemocultivos se llega al diagnóstico de Listeriosis invasiva. Se destaca el compromiso profundo parenquimatoso a forma de abscesos múltiples, como presentación menos frecuente. Se realiza tratamiento médico, antibioticoterapia prolongada, con franca mejoría clínica imagenológica. El diagnóstico de esta enfermedad requiere un alto índice de sospecha, optimizar las herramientas diagnósticas para un correcto relevo bacteriológico y así poder instaurar precozmente la antibioticoterapia.

Listeriosis is an infectious, contagious, foodborne, preventable, and potentially serious disease. The clinical forms of presentation can be very varied, from gastroenterocolitis to severe sepsis and multisystem involvement. We discuss the case of a young woman with subacute neuropsychiatric and systemic manifestations, in a febrile context in which the diagnosis of invasive Listeriosis is reached through blood cultures. Deep parenchymal involvement in the form of multiple abscesses stands out as a less frequent presentation. Medical treatment, prolonged antibiotic therapy, with clear clinical imaging improvement is performed. The diagnosis of this disease requires a high index of suspicion, optimization of diagnostic tools for a correct bacteriological relief and thus early initiation of antibiotic therapy.

A listeriose é uma doença infecciosa, contagiosa, transmitida por alimentos, evitável e potencialmente grave. As formas clínicas de apresentação podem ser muito variadas, desde gastroenterocolite até sepse grave e envolvimento multissistêmico. Discutimos o caso de uma jovem que apresenta manifestações neuropsiquiátricas e sistêmicas subagudas, em um contexto febril em que o diagnóstico de Listeriose invasiva é alcançado por meio de hemoculturas. O envolvimento do parênquima profundo na forma de múltiplos abscessos destaca-se como uma apresentação menos frequente. Realiza-se tratamento médico, antibioticoterapia prolongada, com nítida melhora da imagem clínica. O diagnóstico desta doença requer um alto índice de suspeição, otimização das ferramentas diagnósticas para um correto alívio bacteriológico e, assim, início precoce da antibioticoterapia.

Absceso odontogénico de difícil manejo como forma de presentación de miasis oral por mosca doméstica / Odontogenic abscess difficult to manage as a form of presentation of oral myiasis caused by domestic fly

Los abscesos odontogénicos son un motivo de consulta frecuente en Pediatría, y tienen como causa principal la caries, por deficiente higiene bucal. Sin embargo, en casos de refractariedad al tratamiento antibiótico o empeoramiento de la clínica se deben barajar otras entidades, entre las que se encuentra la miasis oral. Esta patología, aunque es anecdótica en nuestro medio, debe conocerse para poder instaurar de forma precoz el tratamiento, que consiste en la retirada total de las larvas, profilaxis antibiótica de amplio espectro y, en caso de miasis profundas o extensas, ivermectina. Presentamos el caso de una miasis en cavidad bucal por Musca domestica (familia Muscidae) (AU)

Odontogenic abscesses are a frequent reason for consultation in pediatrics, and their main cause is dental caries, due to poor oral hygiene. However, in cases of refractoriness to antibiotic treatment or worsening of the symptoms, other entities should be considered, among which is oral myiasis. This pathology, although it is anecdotal in our environment, must be known in order to establish early treatment, which consists of total removal of the larvae, broad-spectrum antibiotic prophylaxis and, in the case of deep or extensive myiasis, ivermectin. We present the case of a myiasis in the oral cavity caused by Musca domestica (Muscidae family) (AU)

Drenaje percutáneo transglúteo / Percutaneous transgluteal drainage

RESUMEN Antecedentes: El drenaje percutáneo es una alternativa a la cirugía en el manejo de los abscesos pélvi cos. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar la seguridad y la eficacia del enfoque transglúteo. Material y métodos: Los drenajes fueron realizados por 3 cirujanos, bajo guía tomográfica. Se utilizó la técnica de Seldinger, con anestesia local; se utilizaron catéteres de 8 y 10 Fr. El drenaje fue exitoso si la colección desapareció y no había recurrido. Resultados: El promedio de edad de los pacientes fue de 49,2 años. El germen más común fue Esche richia coli. En la mitad de los casos, la causa fue posoperatoria. La duración media del drenaje fue de 9,2 días. El drenaje tuvo éxito en todos los casos, sin complicaciones mayores. Conclusión: El drenaje transglúteo guiado por tomografía computarizada (TC) es seguro y bien tolera do para el tratamiento de abscesos pélvicos profundos.

ABSTRACT Background: Percutaneous drainage is an alternative to surgery in the management of pelvic abscesses. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the transgluteal approach. Material and methods: Transgluteal percutaneous drainages were performed by 3 surgeons using computed tomography guidance. The Seldinger technique was used with 8 Fr and 10 Fr catheters under local anesthesia. Drainage was considered successful if the abscess regressed and did not recur. Results: Mean age was 49.2 years. Escherichia coli was the most common microorganism identified. In 50% of the cases, the abscesses occurred postoperatively. Mean duration of drainage was 9.2 days. Drainage was successful in all the cases and there were no major complications. Conclusion: Transgluteal computed tomography-guided approach is safe and well-tolerated for the treatment of deep pelvic abscesses.

Enfrentamiento de las infecciones de piel en el adulto / Managing adult skin infections

En la actualidad, las infecciones de piel y partes blandas forman parte de un alto porcentaje de las consultas en salud. Estas van desde infecciones leves, donde el manejo se realiza con tratamiento tópico, hasta aquellas con severo compromiso sistémico, requiriendo terapia antibiótica sistémica e incluso el desbridaje quirúrgico. En general, son producto de un desbalance entre los mecanismos de defensa de la barrera cutánea y los factores de virulencia y patogenicidad de los microorganismos que la afectan. Se pueden clasificar según distintos criterios, como por ejemplo, profundidad, gravedad, microorganismos involucrados y si estas son purulentas o no. El reconocer estas entidades clínicas es de suma importancia para llevar a cabo un adecuado tratamiento en los pacientes que presentan estas afecciones, ya que los diagnósticos erróneos llevan a las múltiples consultas con el consiguiente aumento de costos asociados en atención en salud.

Currently, skin and soft tissue infections are part of a high percentage of health consultations. These range from mild infections, where management is performed with topical treatment, to those with severe systemic compromise requiring systemic antibiotic therapy and even surgical debridement. In general, they are the product of an imbalance between the defense mechanisms of the skin barrier and the virulence and pathogenicity factors of the microorganisms that affect it, which can vary from bacterial, viral, fungal and parasites agents. Skin and soft tissue infections can be classified according to different criteria, such as depth, severity, microorganisms involved and whether they are purulent or not. Recognizing these clinical entities is of utmost importance to carry out adequate treatment in patients with these conditions, since erroneous diagnoses lead to multiple consultations with the consequent increase in costs associated with health care

Corynebacterium kroppenstedtii y patología mamaria / Corynebacterium kroppenstedtii and breast pathology

Resumen Corynebacterium kroppenstedtii es un bacilo gram positivo corineforme lipofílico, poco frecuente en la clínica humana. Forma parte de la microbiota cutánea de los seres humanos y, por esta razón, su interpretación clínica es compleja. La mastitis granulomatosa es una enfermedad inflamatoria de origen incierto con baja incidencia. Se presentan dos casos clínicos en los que se describe la asociación de C. kroppenstedtii con mastitis granulomatosa. El tejido mamario es rico en lípidos. El carácter lipofílico de este microorganismo podría explicar su presencia en dicho tejido.

Abstract Corynebacterium kroppenstedtii is a rare lipophilic coryneform gram-positive bacillus. It is part of the human skin microbiota and, for this reason, its clinical interpretation is complex. Granulomatous mastitis is an inflammatory disease of uncertain origin with a low incidence. The association of C. kroppenstedtii with granulomatous mastitis was described in two clinical case reports. The lipophilic characteristics of this microorganism explains why it can be found in lipid-rich breast tissue.

Resumo Corynebacterium kroppenstedtii é um bacilo gram-positivo corineforme lipofílico poco frecuente. Faz parte da microbiota do seres humanos, por isso sua interpretação clínica é complexa. A mastite granulomatosa é uma doença inflamatória de origem incerta com baixa incidência. Foram apresentados dois casos clínicos nos quais é descrita a associação de C. kroppenstedtii com mastite granulomatosa. O tecido mamário é rico em lipídios. O caráter lipofílico desse microrganismo pode explicar sua presença em tal tecido.

El ejemplo, la única manera de enseñar / Examples, the only way to teach

Introducción La Universidad de La Sabana conserva una colección de recetas médicas empleadas durante el siglo XVIII en la Nueva Granada; una de estas integra agentes fitoterapéuticos para aliviar síntomas generados por infecciones de la glándula mamaria. Objetivo Exponer una receta utilizada para el tratamiento del absceso mamario y definir si los componentes de esta tenían efectos beneficiosos en la enfermedad. Material y métodos Se realizó una búsqueda en El Archivo Histórico de la Biblioteca Octavio Arizmendi Posada en la Universidad de La Sabana, donde se encuentra la receta «apostema en los pechos de mujeres», y posteriormente se hizo una recopilación de datos y revisión de la literatura sobre este método en las bases de datos de PubMed, Google Académico y SciELO. Resultados Se encontró que plantas como Luffa cylindrica y Lonicera japonica tienen propiedades galactogogas, analgésicas y antiinflamatorias, pudiendo prevenir el desarrollo del absceso mamario. Por otro lado, la hoja de col tiene un rol importante en el alivio del dolor una vez se tiene el absceso dadas sus propiedades analgésicas. Conclusión A través de la revisión de textos originales de la época se encuentra una receta médica colonial; se revisaron efectos fitoterapéuticos de sus componentes y se destacan beneficios galactogogos, analgésicos y antiinflamatorios. Permitiendo contrastar desde la evidencia médica actual algunos de los métodos de origen natural empleados para los abscesos mamarios en la Nueva Granada durante los siglos XVIII y XIX. (AU)

Introduction The University of La Sabana preserves a collection of medical prescriptions used in the eighteenth century in New Granada; one of these contains phytotherapeutic agents to alleviate the symptoms caused by mammary gland infections. Objective To present a formula used to treat breast abscesses and to determine whether the components are effective in resolving this entity. Materials and methods We conducted a search in the Historical Archive of the Octavio Arizmendi Posada Library of the University of La Sabana, where we found the formula “abscess in women's breasts”. We also collected data and performed a literature search on this method in the PubMed, Google Scholar and SciELO databases. Results The use of plants such as Luffa cylindrica and Lonicera japonica could prevent the development of breast abscesses due to their galactagogue, analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Cabbage leaf also plays an important role in relieving pain in persons with abscesses, due to its analgesic properties. Conclusion Through the review of eighteenth century texts, we found a colonial medical prescription and reviewed the phytotherapeutic effects of its components, highlighting its galactagogue benefits. This allows a comparison between current medical evidence and some of the natural methods used for breast abscesses in New Granada during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. (AU)

Retropharyngeal Abscess. Clinical Review of Twenty-five Years. / Absceso retrofaríngeo. Revisión clínica de veinticinco años.

INTRODUCTION: Retropharyngeal abscess is a serious condition. Its rare occurrence, thus sharing symptoms with other processes, make it a diagnostic challenge for the clinician. Therefore, it is critical to make an early diagnosis to prevent delaying treatment and avoid complications. OBJECTIVES: To gain knowledge of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, the most commonly implicated microorganisms, the type of treatment used, morbidity and mortality of retropharyngeal abscesses at a tertiary institution over the last 25 years. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted by reviewing medical records of all patients diagnosed with retropharyngeal abscess in a single centre between 1 January 1990 and 31 February 2016. Thirty-three patients were included in our study. Data such as personal history, present illness, diagnoses and treatment procedures were collected from the medical records. RESULTS: The incidence during the years of study was 0.2 cases/100 000 inhabitants/year. Personal medical histories most often associated were alcoholism, smoking, diabetes and obesity. The most common aetiology found was impaction of a foreign body (especially fishbone). The most common presenting symptoms were odynophagia and neck pain accompanied by fever. Preventive tracheotomy was performed in the initial management of the patient in 9 cases (27%). The most frequent complication was descending necrotizing mediastinitis. Surgical drainage of the abscess was required in 27 patients (82%), especially with external approaches (17 cases). Two patients had sequelae: paralysis of unilateral vocal cord and Horner's syndrome. No mortality was observed in the patients of the study. CONCLUSION: Retropharyngeal abscesses must be considered medical-surgical emergencies as they are likely to produce serious complications. We must pay attention to the warning symptoms such as odynophagia and cervical pain, associated or otherwise with dyspnoea, stridor, trismus, and neck stiffness. Advances in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures together with advances in critical care have been a key factor in improving the prognosis and mortality of these patients.

Complicación mortal de colitis estercorácea en paciente octogenaria / Fatal complication of stercoral colitis in octogenarian patient

La colitis estercorácea se describe como un proceso inflamatorio que afecta a la pared colónica en relación con el aumento de la presión intraluminal por impactación fecal . Se presenta generalmente en ancianos con múltiples comorbilidades, lo que puede facilitar la aparición de complicaciones potencialmente mortales. Debido a sus síntomas inespecíficos, requiere del uso de imágenes diagnósticas para instaurar un tratamiento precoz . Se presenta un caso clínico, diagnosticado en nuestro centro, de colitis estercorácea complicada con múltiples abscesos hepáticos piógenos.

Stercoral colitis is an inflammatory process of the colonic wall caused by increased luminal pressure resulting from fecal impaction. It is generally seen in elderly patients with multiple comorbidities which facilitate potentially fatal complications. Diagnostic imaging is required for initiation of prompt treatment as its symptoms are non-specific. We present a clinical case of stercoral colitis complicated by multiple pyogenic hepatic abscesses diagnosed in our centre.

Abscesos profundos de cuello en pediatría: experiencia del Hospital Dr. Sótero del Río entre los años 2011 y 2018 / Pediatric deep neck abscesses: Dr. Sótero del Río Hospital 2011-2018 experience

RESUMEN Introducción: Los abscesos profundos de cuello son colecciones de pus alojadas en los espacios profundos cervicales. En la población pediátrica son poco frecuentes, sin embargo, pueden presentar complicaciones potencialmente mortales. Objetivo: Caracterizar a los pacientes que consultan por abscesos profundos del cuello en el Servicio de Urgencia Pediátrico del Hospital Dr. Sótero del Rio. Material y método: Estudio de tipo descriptivo retrospectivo con datos obtenidos de fichas clínicas de pacientes. Se realizó una revisión de fichas clínicas de los pacientes diagnosticados con abscesos profundos de cuello en el Servicio de Urgencia Pediátrica del Hospital Sótero del Río entre los años 2011 y 2018. Se analizaron variables clínicas (anamnesis, examen físico, exámenes de laboratorio generales y específicos y su manejo) y demográficas. Los resultados se analizaron mediante estadística descriptiva con medidas de tendencia central y rango, utilizando Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS). Resultados: Se incluyeron 41 pacientes entre 0 y 15 años, con un promedio de edad de 7,2 años. Sesenta y tres por ciento de los pacientes fueron de sexo masculino. Se presentaron 23 (56%) pacientes con abscesos periamigdalinos (PA), 12 (29,2%) con abscesos retrofaríngeos (RF), 5 (12,1%) con abscesos parafaríngeos (PF) y 1 (2,4%) con absceso de tipo mixto (RF- PF). El 60% de los pacientes recibió algún tratamiento médico previo. Se realizó estudio imagenológico en 83% de los pacientes. Todos los pacientes presentaron parámetros inflamatorios elevados. En el 80% de los pacientes se realizó tratamiento médico y algún tipo de drenaje. Conclusiones: Los abscesos profundos del cuello son una entidad relativamente poco frecuente en pediatría, pero potencialmente peligrosa si no se detecta a tiempo, por lo que debemos tener un alto índice de sospecha para evitar las complicaciones.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Deep neck abscesses are pus collections lodged in the deep cervical spaces. They are rare in the pediatric population, however, they can present life-threatening complications. Objective: To characterize the patients who consult for deep neck abscesses in the pediatric emergency department of Dr. Sótero del Rio Hospital. Material and method: Descriptive retrospective study. A review of clinical records of patients diagnosed with deep neck abscesses in the pediatric emergency department of Dr. Sótero del Rio Hospital between 2011 and 2018 was made. The clinical (anamnesis, physical exam, general and specific laboratory exams and management) and demographic characteristics were evaluated. The results were analyzed by descriptive statistics with measures of central tendency and range, using Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS). Results: Forty-one patients between 0 and 15 years of age were included, with an average age of 7.2 years. 63% of the patients were male. There were 23 (56%) patients with peritonsillar abscesses (PA), 12 (29.2%) with retropharyngeal abscesses (RF), 5 (12.1%) with parapharyngeal abscesses (PF) and 1 (2.4%) with abscess of mixed type (RF-PF). 60% of the patients received some previous medical treatment. An imaging study was performed in 83% of the patients. All the patients presented high inflammatory parameters. In 80% of patients, medical treatment and some type of drainage were performed. Conclusions: Deep abscesses of the neck are a relatively rare entity in pediatrics, but potentially dangerous if not detected in time, so we must have a high index of suspicion to avoid complications.

[Deep neck space abscesses in children: 15 years of experience in a children's ENT referral unit]. / Abscesos cervicales profundos infantiles: experiencia de una unidad de ORL infantil de referencia durante 15 años.

INTRODUCTION: Deep neck space abscesses in infants are clinical entities of great importance due to their severity and possible complications. The aim of the study is to review our experience in the diagnostic and therapeutic management of deep neck space abscesses, and compare it with published literature. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study was carried out on all patients diagnosed and treated for deep neck space abscesses over a 15-year period (2002-2016), including an analysis of the demographic, clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic characteristics. RESULTS: A total of 72 cases were diagnosed. An increase was observed in their incidence in recent years. The most frequent locations were peri-tonsillar (30.6%), followed by swollen lymph nodes (18.1%), parapharyngeal (16.7%), and retropharyngeal (16.7%). The least frequent were submandibular abscesses (12.5%) and parotid abscesses (5.6%). The distribution was different according to age (P<.001). The most frequent clinical symptom was fever (70.8%), followed by odynophagia (55.56%). The most used imaging tests were CT (50.7%) and ultrasound (28.2%). The treatment used was pharmacological in 11.1%, all of them abscessed swollen lymph nodes of less than 1.5cm in maximum size. The other 88.9% underwent surgery. There was recurrence in 12.5% of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: The performance of tonsillectomy and/or early cervicotomy in abscesses larger than 2cm or lesions of deep location decreases the number of serious complications and does not have recurrences. When using more conservative surgery, there were 12.5% of recurrences.

Protothecosis in a patient with T cell lymphocytic leukemia / Prototecosis en un paciente con leucemia linfocítica de células T

Human protothecosis is a rare infection caused by algae of the genus Prototheca. Prototheca wickerhamii has been recognized as the main species that causes infection in immunocompromised hosts with deficits in innate or cellular immunity. We report a case of persisting subcutaneous protothecosis in a patient with T-cell large granular lymphocyte leukemia, who also presented a history of disseminated histoplasmosis.

La prototecosis humana es una infección rara causada por algas del género Prototheca. Prototheca wickerhamii ha sido reconocida como la principal especie causante de infección en huéspedes inmunocomprometidos, con déficit de inmunidad innata o celular. Presentamos un caso de prototecosis subcutánea persistente en un paciente con leucemia linfocítica granular de células T, con antecedentes de histoplasmosis diseminada.

Aislamiento y caracterización de Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis biotipo ovis en Lama glama en Córdoba, Argentina / Isolation and characterization of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis biotype ovis in Lama glama in Córdoba, Argentina

Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis es el agente causal de la linfadenitis caseosa en distintas especies animales. No existen reportes en Argentina de casos clínicos en camélidos. Esta comunicación describe el aislamiento y tipificación de Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis biotipo ovis en una llama (Lama glama) en Córdoba, Argentina. (AU)

Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis is the causal agent of caseous lymphadenitis in different animal species. There are no reports in Argentina of clinical cases in camelids. This communication describes the isolation and typing of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis biotype ovis in llama (Lama glama) in Córdoba, Argentina. (AU)

Protothecosis in a patient with T cell lymphocytic leukemia.

Human protothecosis is a rare infection caused by algae of the genus Prototheca. Prototheca wickerhamii has been recognized as the main species that causes infection in immunocompromised hosts with deficits in innate or cellular immunity. We report a case of persisting subcutaneous protothecosis in a patient with T-cell large granular lymphocyte leukemia, who also presented a history of disseminated histoplasmosis.

[Impact of vacuum-assisted closure management in deep neck abscesses]. / Impacto del manejo con cierre asistido al vacío en abscesos profundos de cuello.

BACKGROUND: The presence of deep neck abscesses is potentially serious; they can lead to death in a short period of time. The vacuum-assisted closure (V.A.C.) therapy has been used in many areas of surgery for complex wound healing. This treatment modality has recently been considered in the field of head and neck surgery. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the efficacy of healing therapy using V.A.C. therapy in deep neck abscesses. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Open-label trial. Patients with deep neck abscesses were included using V.A.C. therapy versus conventional therapy. Cultures were taken before and during surgery, and prior to primary wound closure. The percentages of healing, viable tissue, wound healing time, and hospital stay were evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 18 patients were included. Affected neck spaces: submaxilar 29%, parapharyngeal 22%, submental 21% and masticatory 13%. The final postsurgical culture was negative in 78%. Viable tissue of the wound for the V.A.C. group was 42%, and for the control group was 36% (p=0.025). Healing time was 22±6 days and 38±15.5, respectively (p = 0.01). The mean number of hospital stay was 12 days for both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Therapy with V.A.C. is useful in the treatment of deep neck abscesses; it decreased healing time as a result of more viable tissue allowing suture closure of the wound in a shorter period.

[Chronic granulomatous disease: three cases with different presentations]. / Enfermedad granulomatosa crónica: tres casos clínicos con diferentes formas de presentación.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a rare form of primary immunodeficiency disease, characterized by an abnormal susceptibility to bacterial and fungal infections, and it is caused by a deficit in the phagocyte nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase complex (NADPH), resulting in the inability to generate reactive oxygen species that destroy microorganisms. The diagnosis is based on clinical characteristics and analysis of phagocytes, and later confirmed by molecular studies. Its management should consider antimicrobial prophylaxis, a search for infections and aggressive management of these. OBJECTIVE: To describe three cases of CGD emphasizing their forms of presentation and to conduct a review of the condition. CASE REPORTS: Three case reports, two of them first cousins, are presented. Molecular diagnosis was reached in one of the cases. Recurrent infections, abscesses, adenitis, granulomas and complications are identified to facilitate the suspected diagnosis of CGD, bearing in mind the importance of early diagnosis and genetic counseling. CONCLUSIONS: EGC is a rare congenital primary immunodeficiency disorder, mostly with X-linked inheritance, autosomal recessive form, and a specific presentation form. Its diagnosis should be timely to avoid complications. Prophylaxis and aggressive treatment of infections should be performed, as well as genetic counseling.

Enfermedad granulomatosa crónica: tres casos clínicos con diferentes formas de presentación / Chronic granulomatous disease: three cases with different presentations

Introducción: La enfermedad granulomatosa crónica (EGC) es una forma infrecuente de inmunodeficiencia primaria que se caracteriza por una sensibilidad anormal a infecciones bacterianas y fúngicas, debida a un déficit en el complejo nicotinamida adenina dinucleótida fosfato oxidasa (NADPH) en los fagocitos. Objetivo: Describir tres casos de EGC con énfasis en su forma de presentación y realizar una revisión del tema. Casos Clínicos: Se presentan tres casos clínicos, dos de ellos con relación de parentesco (primos en primer grado). Se llegó a diagnóstico molecular en uno de los casos. Se destacan las manifestaciones clínicas: infecciones recurrentes, abscesos, adenitis y granulomas, y complicaciones, con la finalidad de facilitar la sospecha diagnóstica de EGC, debido a la importancia del diagnóstico temprano y el consejo genético. Conclusiones: La EGC es un trastorno inmunológico primario congénito infrecuente, con herencia ligada a X en su mayoría, pero también con formas autosómicas recesivas, con una forma de presentación característica y cuyo diagnóstico debe ser oportuno para evitar complicaciones, realizar profilaxis y tratamiento agresivo de las infecciones y consejo genético.

Introduction: Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a rare form of primary immunodeficiency disease, characterized by an abnormal susceptibility to bacterial and fungal infections, and it is caused by a deficit in the phagocyte nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase complex (NADPH), resulting in the inability to generate reactive oxygen species that destroy micro-organisms. The diagnosis is based on clinical characteristics and analysis of phagocytes, and later confirmed by molecular studies. Its management should consider antimicrobial prophylaxis, a search for infections and aggressive management of these. Objective: To describe three cases of CGD emphasizing their forms of presentation and to conduct a review of the condition. Case reports: Three case reports, two of them first cousins, are presented. Molecular diagnosis was reached in one of the cases. Recurrent infections, abscesses, adenitis, granulomas and complications are identified to facilitate the suspected diagnosis of CGD, bearing in mind the importance of early diagnosis and genetic counseling. Conclusions: EGC is a rare congenital primary immunodeficiency disorder, mostly with X-linked inheritance, autosomal recessive form, and a specific presentation form. Its diagnosis should be timely to avoid complications. Prophylaxis and aggressive treatment of infections should be performed, as well as genetic counseling.